Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal attended the 86th Foundation Day celebrations of the All Assam Matak Sanmilan at Bokapara Public Auditorium in Dibrugarh on Monday, calling upon the community to champion Assamese culture globally.
The event, presided over by Chand Gohain, President of the All Assam Matak Sanmilan, featured the release of a commemorative souvenir marking the milestone occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Sonowal who is also the Dibrugarh MP commended the organisation’s enduring commitment to community development. “The Matak Sanmilan has been instrumental in empowering and uplifting the Matak community since its inception,” he stated, acknowledging the organisation’s sustained efforts spanning over eight decades.
The Union Minister made a passionate appeal to young community members to become cultural ambassadors. “I encourage our youth to excel in all fields and contribute towards placing the Assamese identity prominently on the global map through the activities of the Sanmilan,” Sonowal said.
All Assam Matak Sanmilan president Chand Gohain brought attention to a critical demand that has remained unfulfilled. “We reiterate our long-pending demand for granting ST status to the Matak community,” Gohain stated, referring to the community’s pursuit of Scheduled Tribe recognition. Other speakers discussed various developmental challenges and opportunities affecting the community’s progress.
The ceremony commenced with Sonowal paying floral tributes to portraits of Matak King Swargadeo Sarbananda Singha and legendary singer Zubeen Garg.
Established in 1939, the All Assam Matak Sanmilan has consistently advocated for the rights and advancement of the Matak community in Assam.
